Make changes to Chatham-Kent’s Responsible Animal Ownership By-law specifically Squamata- Snakes over 1 m and lizards over 0.5 m banned and more then 10 animals.

There are several parts of this by-law that needs to be reviewed. First the restriction of pet snakes except those under 1m in length. This makes the most common pet snakes illegal. The Ball Python, Corn Snakes, Boas, King snakes and many more. This virtually eliminates the whole snake pet industry. Also the restriction of lizards over 0.5 m bans many popular lizards in the pet industry. And lastly, the restriction of 10 or less animals should not pertain to snakes and lizards. It is not uncommon for a Herper to have more then 10 as most take up little room. I believe these laws have been proposed by people with fear and lack of education in the Herp industry. They need to be reviewed and some education on these animals needs to take place on the Municipalities part. Snakes and lizards are not dangerous animals and make great pets.